Volodymyr Zelensky: 20 moments in the life of a Ukraine leader propelled into war (20 images)

By Wade Sheridan

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky was a popular comedian just four years ago before becoming a major player on the world stage, as his nation tries to fend off a Russian invasion. Here's a look at his time as a candidate and now a world leader.

Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at his headquarters after the first round of presidential elections in Kiev, Ukraine, on March 31, 2019. Zelensky won that round of the Ukraine presidential election with 30.4% of votes. Photo by Stepan Franko/EPA-EFE

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Zelensky reacts at his campaign headquarters after winning the presidential election over Petro Poroshenko on April 21, 2019. Photo by Stepan Franko/EPA-EFE

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Zelensky reads an oath and puts his hand on the holy Bible during his inauguration inside the Ukrainian parliament in Kiev on May 20, 2019. Photo by Mykhailo Markiv/EPA-EFE

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Zelensky speaks at the 74th United Nations General Assembly at U.N. Headquarters in New York City on September 25, 2019. Photo by Jemal Countess/UPI

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